Pegasus & Bellerophon

Artist Amy Goodman was commissioned to create a two metre high statue of Bellerophon astride Pegasus, the reinstated, iconic symbol of the British Army’s Airborne Forces. The bronze statue, which was cast at the Talos Art Foundry, now stands outside Merville Barracks, Colchester, home of the 16 Air Assault Brigade. It is a reminder to today’s airborne soldiers of the proud history that they represent and the standards that have been set for them to uphold. It was unveiled on 3rd May 2017 and is titled: ‘The Slayer of Belleros’, or the Slayer of Enemies. The classical verdigris patina pays homage to the many Ancient Greek sculptures that inspired Amy, and give this magnificent statue a feeling of timeless antiquity.

Amy writes: ‘Whilst respecting the emblem and Pegasus ethos, I wanted this piece to be a little different to what has been made before. I wanted the composition to be interesting with the wings on the downbeat. The statue is a of a war machine, with Pegasus steadying the platform to allow Bellerophon to strike the decisive blow; both combined are a weapon system operating in battle-winning harmony.

Just like this unique Brigade; the best in the Army. The statue will serve to connect past, current and future generations of Airborne soldiers…and it is as much about the future as it is the past. It will serve as a focal point for remembrance and it will, by the words of the Pegasus Ethos placed on its plinth, remind all members of Airborne Forces of the requirement stated by Montgomery to maintain “the highest of standards in all things, whether it be skill in battle or smartness in the execution of all peacetime duties.” Every man an Emperor.’

‘Pegasus and Bellerophon’ was completed in record time by the Talos Art Foundry, and we are very proud to have had a hand in the production of Amy’s superb sculpture.